Anyone who has watched the wrinkles of time develop on their face, or has been disturbed by a loss of memory, has uncomfortably confronted the human aging process. The inexorable march of time on our bodies begs an important question: why do we have to grow old? Written in everyday language, The Clock of Ages takes us on a tour of the aging human body - all from a research scientist's point of view. From the deliberate creation of organisms that live three times their natural span to the isolation of human genes that may allow us to do the same, The Clock of Ages also examines the latest discoveries in geriatric genetics. Sprinkled throughout the pages are descriptions of the aging of many historical figures, such as Florence Nightingale, Jane Austen, Bonaparte and Casanova. These stories underscore the common bond that unites us all: they aged, even as we do. The Clock of Ages tells us why.

'This is simply a fantastic book ... the best biology book written for the lay public for many years.' Eric D. Albright, Library Journal '... a tour around the ageing human body, conducted with elegance and verve.' Susan Aldridge, Focus 'A tour of human ageing that aims to educate and entertain.' Nature 'An entertaining and edifying book with a cast of characters ...'. Roy Herbert, New Scientist '... an enjoyable as well as very informative book'. T. Franklin Williams, Journal of Urban Health '... this fascinating book takes us on a comprehensive tour of our ageing bodies, inside and out ... Clearly illustrated and very readable, the book approaches what is often a taboo subject with both humor and humanity.' The Good Book Guide